MORE than 200 people have explored an ancient henge site after an archaeology group complete its “most ambitious” dig.

The public visiting Stapleton’s Field in Norton last Saturday when an open day was held at the site, which is believed to be 5,000-years-old.

Norton Community Archaeology Group organised the annual event, now in its sixth year, having spent July and August excavating. Among the voluntary group’s discoveries was a Roman enclosure, with indications that it was used for iron production.

“This six-week dig was our most ambitious yet and has given 115 people the opportunity to dig on a site of national importance,” said chairman Chris Hobbs.

“When the group started in 2006 we never anticipated anything like this. We have a great team now who have learnt a great deal over the years; it’s great to think that we could now be trusted with something of this importance.

“This open day was a once in 5000-year opportunity for everyone to see the site of perhaps the earliest place the settlement in the area. It’s all beyond our wildest expectations.”

The dig was led by archaeologist Keith Fitzpatrick-Matthews from North Herts District Council with about 5000 artefacts of flint, pottery and bone discovered.

The group – sponsored by the Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation and the Heritage Lottery Fund – will now analyse their finds.